Child Identity Theft
Under the FCRA
Child identity theft happens. Most parents don’t realize that their children are prime targets for identity theft. A child’s clean credit history is attractive to criminals who can open accounts, apply for loans, or even rent property in the child's untarnished name. Because children don’t typically check their credit reports or have legitimate circumstances to have their credit report pulled until they reach adulthood, fraud can go undetected for years—sometimes until the child applies for a student loan, their first apartment, or a job.
This makes child identity theft a very real threat that every parent should take seariously.
Warning Signs of Child Identity Theft
Parents should stay alert for red flags of child identity theft that may signal someone is misusing their child’s personal information:
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Credit card or loan offers addressed to your child
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Collection calls or bills in your child’s name
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Denial of government benefits due to “income” or “existing accounts” tied to your child
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Problems when your child applies for a driver’s license, financial aid, or their first job
If you see a red flag, or have questions or concerns about child identity theft, take action. Look into your child’s credit file or contact us for further guidance right away.
⚠️ Sadly, many instances of identity theft against children happen from someone they know, like a “friend” or family member who has access to their personal information. Safeguard personal identifying information, including your child’s Social Security Number, and only share when necessary and with trusted sources.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
and Children’s Rights
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that protects consumers—including minors—when their credit files are compromised. If your child is the victim of child identity theft, the FCRA provides the right to:
•Request and review credit reports from the three major nationwide bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) to see if accounts exist in your child’s name
•Demand corrections or deletions of fraudulent information
•Place fraud alerts or security freezes on your child’s credit file to prevent further misuse
•Seek compensation when credit reporting agencies, lenders, or debt collectors mishandle disputes or fail to comply with the law.
A parent or lawful guardian should be able to access their child’s consumer file if a file exists.
What to do if You Suspect Child Identity Theft
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Act quickly – Request your child’s credit report from all three major bureaus.
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Document everything – Save letters, bills, credit denials, and collection notices. Keep notes, which could be important if further actions or legal assistance is needed.
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Dispute fraudulent items – Send written disputes to the bureaus and creditors.
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Contact Wells Law – Chicago – We offer a Free Case Review to help families protect their children and pursue justice.
👉 Important: Save all documents, send disputes in writing, and keep copies. If a credit bureau refuses to help, or if fraudulent accounts remain, you may have legal claims under the FCRA.
Why Legal Help Matters with Child Identity Theft
Identity theft cases involving children can be especially complex. Credit bureaus and debt collectors often resist fixing errors—even when the victim is a child. That’s where we step in. At Wells Law – Chicago, we fight to enforce your rights under the FCRA and hold companies accountable when they fail to act. We’ve obtained millions in relief for consumers nationwide, and we bring that same tenacity to protecting children.
Protect Your Child Today
If you believe your child’s identity has been stolen—or if a credit bureau or debt collector is refusing to provide information—you don’t have to face it alone. Contact Wells Law – Chicago today or complete our online Free Case Review form. We’ll evaluate your child identity theft issue and explain your legal options.